Environmental impact assessment in concession for processing : Have changes occurred over time and how does stakeholders experience current analysis and law propositions? (English)

Abstract [en]

In order to commence mining of minerals in Sweden there are two larger concessions that will need to be granted, the first one is concession for processing. The concession includes an environmental impact assessment. The aim of this study was to examine if and how the environmental impact assessments for the processing concession has changed over time and if the concerned stakeholders did experience any changes. The aim of the study was also to see what the concerned stakeholders thought about the Swedish environmental protection agency analysis and the Environmental- and energy departments law proposition. The results of this study are based on literature studies of environmental impact assessments and interviews with both involved authorities and operators. The study was limited to Sweden's three largest mining counties, Dalarna, Västerbotten and Norrbotten. The results of this study shows that the scope of the environmental impact assessments have grown and that the content has become more focused on human interests. The majority of the interviewed stakeholders agree on that changes have evolved over time. All stakeholders also agree that law propositions similar to the analysis the Swedish environmental protection agency made, would be in favor for all concerned because of the gathered trial of environmental laws. They also agree that the departments law proposition on demand on increased consultation would not make the situation any different from today's trial. It is clear that today's trial in processing concession are somewhat problematic and that changes has to be made.